Summer 2019-San Diego Surf Camps For Kids

As we inch closer to the summer of 2019, many parents are looking for a summer surf camp for their kids. Well, I have done a bit of research for you by preparing a list of all of the San Diego surf camps offered in San Diego County.

I will first state general information regarding what age groups are covered, rates, student to instructor ratios, as well as any other additional information that will help you find just the right summer San Diego surf camp for your child. Please always refer to each business website for more in-depth information.

Let’s now have a look at what I found. I will first start in North County San Diego and finish down at Imperial Beach, which is right next to the USA/Mexico border.

North County San Diego Surf Camps-So Much Diversity!

North County San Diego consists of San Onofre, Oceanside, Carlsbad, Encinitas, Solana Beach, and Del Mar. Let’s have a look at what is offered.

Endless Summer Surf Camp-San Onofre State Beach

The very first summer San Diego surf camp that I will be starting with is unique. You see, Endless Summer Surf Camp not only has a 5-day long day surf camp, but it also offers the option of staying and camping overnight.

Overnight students will camp out in tents up above Trails Beach at the San Onofre Bluff Campground which is located on the southern border of San Onofre State Beach off of Old Pacific Highway.

Six trails connect the coast to the San Onofre Bluff Campground, and Endless Summer Surf Camp is located right next to the beginning of Trail 4.

The beaches here at San Onofre State Beach are very primitive and have a consistent surf break and sparse to no crowds.

Est- 1992

Mission Statement- “We have been in the business of teaching people to surf for over 22 years and have developed and perfected our teaching methods. This is one of the only surf camps run by a professional surfer who still competes on a top-level to this date. Camp Director and professional surfer, Jason Senn, has devoted his life to introducing people to surfing and improving their skills.”

Address- San Onofre Bluffs Campground

Phone– (949) 498-7862

Session Dates and Times-

• June 3 to Sept 13th
• Monday-Friday from 8 am- 3 pm

Age Groups- 

• 11 and above with all levels welcomed

The ratio of Students to Instructors- 

• 1:1 for beginners
• 3:1 for intermediate to advanced

Qualifications-

• CPR-First Aid Certified
• instructors/counselors are all adults who have had background checks performed
• many of the instructors were former or are professional surfers

Rates- 

• $495/week for day Summer Camp
• $1095-$1195/ week for Overnight Surf Camp

Provisions–

• all surfing equipment included
  • wetsuits
  • soft bottom boards for beginners
    • a variety of high performance long and shortboards for more advanced campers
• expert surfing instructions
• food, snacks, and drinks provided throughout the day
• video taken throughout the day to track the progression of the campers
• Friday ‘just for fun’ surf contests

Extras Offered-

• discounts are available when attending multiple consecutive sessions ($100 off)-see website for more information
  • family discounts available
• professional photo’s of campers surfing are available for purchase at the end of every camping session on Fridays
• adult surf camps are available
• private surf lessons for all available
• least crowded beach to learn on

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Surfin Fire Surf School

Another San Diego surf camp found in North County in Surfin Fire Surf School which is sponsored by Billabong Surf Camps is a premier surf school with over 30 surf instructors. Their mission is to provide a positive surf experience,  teach beach awareness, ocean safety along with the fundamentals of surfing.

Because there are three different locations to choose from, I will be noting this fact when presenting pertinent information. It should be pointed out that the Encinitas site is only for the Spring Surf Camp Session, but private lessons are held at this location year-round.

Est– 1999

Mission Statement– The owner, Jon Peterson ” … has an intense passion for the sport of surfing and is driven to bring the experience safely to others. He incorporates his expert knowledge in safety & his myriad of past experiences in the surf arena to the organization. He has an outstanding approach to teaching and coaching all ages & personality types.”

Address-Surfin Fire has three different locations to choose from:

Oceanside Pier

South Ponto Beach-Carlsbad

Leucadia- Encinitas Sea Bluff (Grandview Beach)- only offered for Spring Surf Camp.

Phone– (760) 438-0538

Website- surfinfire.com

Sessions Dates and Times-

• June 3- Aug 23
• Morning Camp- (9:00 am to 12:00 pm)
• Afternoon Camp- (12:30 pm to 3:30 pm)
• Drop-ins

Ages Groups- 

• 5-7
• 8-12
• 13-17

The Ratio Between Student to Instructor–

• 2:1 (5-7)
• 3:1 (8-17)

Qualifications-

• the owner is a 23-year veteran of the Encinitas Fire Department with certificates in teaching CPR and First Aid as well as a member of the swift-water rescue team
• always have an off duty firefighter, lifeguard or EMT on the premises for safety

Rates-

Oceanside Pier

• • •  ages 5 to 7 –Rippersnappers Surf Camp
      • Morning Camp for three days- $285
        • Five days- $450
    • 8 and up for a daily drop-in-$65
      • Morning Camp for two days (8 and up)- $125
        • Three days- $ 175
        • Five days- $225

South Ponto Beach

• • • ages 5 to 7 -Rippersnappers Surf Camp
      • Morning Camp-$450
      • Afternoon Camp- $450
    • ages 8 to 12 -Grommet Surf Camp
      • Morning Camp- $300
      • Afternoon Camp- $300
    • ages 13- 17- Teen Surf Camp
      • Morning Camp- $275
      • Afternoon Camp- $275
    • Morning Camp for any three days-$200
    • Afternoon Camp for any three days- $185
    • Morning Surf Camp Daily drop-in – $75
    • One Full-Day (9 am- 3:30 pm) drop-in – $125
    • Full-Day all week -$450

Provisions-

• top of the line GLS surfboard and wetsuit upon request ( you must call ahead first)
• provided with a lecture every day about the importance of ocean awareness and safety, surfing etiquette as well as the aspects of competitive surfing
• shade for sun protection
• sports drinks and water

Extras–

• provides adult/ group surf lessons
• offers a Competitive Surf Camp
  • Session 3 (June 17- 21) and Session 8 ( July 22-26) from 9 am to 1 pm- $275
• the staff consists of always having an off duty firefighter, lifeguard or EMT on the premises at all times

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Leucadia Surf School

Leucadia Surf School holds its summer San Diego surf camp over on Moonlight Beach in Encinitas. The camps’ site is found a little north of Moonlight Beach where there are no crowds.

One of the things that stands out about this camp is that they only concentrate on surfing. Lots and lots of surfing! There are two long surf sessions with a break in between.

Est– 2002

Mission Statement-  “Our goal is that you are able to surf on your own.  You don’t need lessons until you are surfing like Kelly Slater, you only need lessons until you are able to catch and ride the easiest of waves straight in, Waikiki in the 1950s style. Then you are on your way to improving your skills, and its all fun along the way.”

Address- 400 B St, Encinitas

Phone- (760) 635-SURF (7873)

Website- leucadiasurfschool.com

Session Dates and Times- 

• June 10- Aug 23
• 10 am to 1 pm

Age Groups-

• 6- 17

The Ratio of Students to Instructors-

• 2:1 to 4:1

Qualifications-

•  professional instructors are EMT, Lifeguard or CPR certified

Rates–

• Five day-$300
• Four day-$250
• One day- $80

Provisions-

• a soft bottom surfboard and a wetsuit rental is included
• pizza party on Fridays

Extras–

• private surf lessons are available
  • 2-hour group lesson- $75
  • 2-hour private one on one- $140
  • wetsuit and surfboard rentals included

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The Grauer School- Summer Surf Camp: Surfing and Ocean Stewardship

The Grauer School in Encinitas, a premier prep school, offers two, week-long surf camp sessions during the summer and all San Diego students are invited to attend.

Here, along with surfing some of the best North County San Diego surf breaks daily, campers will also learn to become citizen scientists. They will have the opportunity of visiting both Scripps Institute of Oceanography (SIO) as well as the San Elijo Lagoon.

Est- 1991

Mission Statement– “This is SoCal: summer and surfing just go together! We want our students to become better surfers both in and out of the water. Our goal is not only to advance surfing skills but to emphasize the importance of conservation. Let’s enjoy our natural surfing resources and preserve them for others to enjoy in the future.” —Brian Dugan, Grauer Surf Coach

Address– 1500 S. El Camino Real, Encinitas

Phone- (760) 274-2116

Website–grauerschool.com

Sessions Dates and Times-

• July 8- 12 (8 am -11 am)
• July 15- 19 (8 am- 11 am)

Age Groups-

• Middle School and High School

The Ratio of Students to Instructors-

• 4:1, 5:1

Qualifications-

• Lifeguard and CPR certified
• all instructors have many years of surfing experience

Rates-

• $250 per session plus a non-refundable $25 service fee

Provisions-

• Camp t-shirt available for an additional fee
• trips to several different surf breaks
• visit SIO (Scripps Institute of Oceanography) and San Elijo Lagoon
• take water samples for water quality, study the watershed
• learn about environmental conservation efforts

Extras-

• Grauer School offers many Summer School and specialty classes; please see the website for more information.

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Aqua Adventures/Ocean Strong Del Mar Surf Camp

Here at Agua Adventures/Ocean Strong, the primary objective is to have your child become observant and confident while in the water. Campers may begin using a bodyboard to learn how to paddle out as well as read the waves before embarking onto a surfboard.

All levels are welcomed at this camp, and for beginners, the ratio to students to instructors is 1:1, that is until the camper, and the instructors feel like they are ready to advance.

Est- 2000

Mission Statement- “Aqua-Adventures offers San Diego surf programs & ocean programs that are great for beginners to experience the ocean, develop or strengthen surf skills in the whitewater and face waves, build on bodyboarding skills, strengthen swim skills, and socialize with friends.”

Address- Powerhouse Park- 1658 Coast Blvd, Del Mar

Phone– (760) 436-1514

Website– delmarsurfcamp.org

Sessions and Dates and Times-

• April 8th- Sept 6
• Half Day
  • 9:00 am- 12:30 pm
• Full Day
  • 9:00 am- 2:30 pm

Age Groups-

• 5 to 14

The Ratio of Students to Instructors-

• 1:1 as you first start out and then 3:1 to 4:1

Qualifications-

• all teachers, mentors, and coaches have been screened as well as trained in safety and CPR
• lifeguards on the beach at all times

Rates-

• One day,  Mon -Thurs (1 pm- 4:30 pm)- $120
• Two days, (Tues and Thurs) (9 am- 2:30 pm) -$165
• Three days, (MWF) (9 am-2:30 pm)- $250
• Five days (9 am- 2:30 pm)- $340
• Five days Everything Camp (9 am- 3:30 pm)- $460

Provisions–

• wetsuits and soft bottom surfboards are provided
• a $10 fee to purchase hot lunches
• tent for shade is set up

Extra Offerings-

• Surf Clinics
• Private Surf Lessons
• Body Boarding Camps (ages 7-10) and (ages 11-15)
• Ocean Art Camp (ages 7-12)
• Sandpiper Camp (ages 5-9)- no surfing
• Beach Parties and Ocean Events

-please see the website address above for more information

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San Diego Surf Camps for Kids

As we make our way more south, there are several more San Diego surf camps to choose from, especially at Pacific Beach, Mission Beach, and Ocean Beach.

First, let’s take a look over at La Jolla Shores. I have written extensively on this site, especially how the surf here is perfect for the beginner.

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Surf Divas-La Jolla Shores

Surf Diva School is one of the biggest and most respected surf schools in the world. Here campers are separated into age groups, and each group has a unique agenda as well as specific needs. The older you are, the more water time you have.

Est- 1999

Mission Statement- “Whether your child is a beginner or has some surfing experience, the small groups allow our surf instructors to provide your child with the proper coaching. For peace of mind, please note that Surf Diva Surf School is our parent company. Surf Diva is one of the biggest and most respected surf schools in the world; this is your guarantee that your child will learn the right way with the best coaches.”

Address– 2160 Avenida De La Playa

Phone- (858) 454-8273

Website- surfdiva.com

Session Dates and Times-

• June 3 to Aug 30th
• Half-Day
  • 9:00 am-12:30 pm
  • Mid-Day option is available after July 4th
    • 10 am-1:30 pm (only for weeks 6 -11)
  • Afternoon Camp
    • 1:00 pm- 4:00 pm (see website for more information)
• Full-Day
  • 9 am to 4 pm

Ages- 

• (5-8)- La Jolla Surf Camp
• (9-11)- Tween Camps- Junior American Surf Academy
• (12-17)- Teen Camps- American Surf Academy

The Ratio of Students to Instructors-

• (5-8)- 2:1 to 3:1
• (9-11)- 4:1
• (12-17)- 5:1

Qualifications-

• surf instructors are all CPR, and First Aid certified

Rates–

• For all age groups-
  • Summer Camp Half Day (3 days total)- $395
  • Summer Camp Full Day- $649.98
• Drop-ins-
  • Half-Day- $90 plus 10% City of San Diego Surcharge
  • Full-Day- $150 plus 10% City San Diego  Surcharge
    • all fees include a surfboard and wetsuit rental

Provisions–

• all rates include rental of a soft bottom surfboard
• students will receive a colorful rash guard
• wetsuits not included in rates, but can be rented out for $6/day
• for an extra fee, a surfboard-shaped USB stick may be purchased, containing many solo actions shots and group photos taken throughout the week

Additional Offerings-

• Body Board Camps (Boogie Bees) (ages 5-10)
  • $330 Half Day
  • $550 Full Day
    • plus $5.50/day for wetsuit rental for both Half Day and Full Day
• Women’s Weekend Surf Clinics
• Co-ed Surf Clinics
• Private Lessons
  • Surfing
  • Stand Up Paddle ( SUP)
• Group discounts available

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Menehune Surf Camp

Menehune Surf Camp is offered at two different spots: off of 18th Street in Del Mar, which is just north of Del Mar City Beach, and at North La Jolla Shores ( closer to the pier). I will be specifying each location below. Here there are only two instructors, so each session is limited to eight to ten campers.

All ages are separated into age groups, and each group has a specific set of goals to achieve while catering to individual skill levels.

Est- 2000

Mission Statement– “Each camp is led by our top of the line instructors, most of who are locals who have surfed the area for years. Our smaller group sizes allow instructors to create learning environments where kids receive more personalized attention, feel comfortable being themselves, and have FUN while mastering the art of surfing!”

Addresses-

• La Jolla Shores
• Del Mar

Website

Sessions Dates and Times-

• June-August
• Half-Day Camp
  • 8:30 am- 12:00 pm both locations
  • 12:30 pm- 4:30 pm Del Mar only
• Full-Day Camp
  • La Jolla Shores- (8:30 am- 2:30 pm)
  • Camp Del Mar- (8:30 am- 4:00 pm)

Ages-

• (5-7)  Supergrom
• (8-12) Menehune
• (13-17) Teen

The Ratio of Students to Instructors-

• (5-12 )-4:1
• (13-17)-5:1

Qualifications-

• all instructors are Lifeguard, CPR, and First Aid certified
• all go through extensive training
• lifeguard on-site at all time

Rates-

• La Jolla Shores
  • Half-Day- $355
    • 8:30 am-12:00 pm
  • Full-Day- $520
    • 8:30 am-2:30 pm
  • A 16% city of San Diego Surcharge is included in the price
• Del Mar
  • Half-Day- $360
    • 8:30 am-12:00 pm
    • 12:30 am-4:00 pm
  • Full-Day- $595
    • 8:30 am-4:00 pm
  • a 10% city fee will be included upon check-out.

Provisions–

• wet suit rental extra at $25/ week
• surfboards and rash guards are provided
• free Menehune t-shirt (blue or white)
• snacks and lunch are not provided

Extras-

• SUP (Stand Up Paddle) lessons available at both La Jolla Shores and Del Mar
• Corporate Events, Birthday Parties at La Jolla Shores
• private and semi-private group surf lessons at both La Jolla Shores and Del Mar
• Surf Packages- see website for more info
• Surf Team for ages (9-17) at La Jolla Shores @ $330/ month
  • choose to practice two times a week
  • both for non-competitive and competitive
  • beginners to intermediate

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Pacific Beach Surf Shop- San Diego Surf Camp

Pacific Beach Surf Camp is one of the oldest San Diego surf camps. Campers have a chance to surf three times a day as well as daily surfing-related activities, lectures, and other informative information that will help with ocean awareness and surfing performance.

Est- 1962

Mission Statement– “Open since 1962, we are the oldest surf shop and school in San Diego, based in beautiful Pacific Beach on the Boardwalk. We’ve taught thousands of surf lessons and pioneered the San Diego surf camp and surf lesson programs.”

Address- 4208 Oliver Ct. San Diego

Phone- (858) 373-1138

Website– pbsurfshop.com

Sessions Dates and Times-

• June 10- August 30
• Full-Day Camp- (9:00 am- 4:00 pm)
  • 3-Day Full-Day Camp-(9:00 am- 4:00 pm)
• 5-Day Half Day Camp
  • 9:00 am- 12:00 pm
  • 1:00 pm- 4:00 pm
• 3-Day Half Day Camp
  • 9:00 am- 12:00 pm
  • 1:00 pm- 4:00 pm
• Drop-In One Full Day
• Drop-In One Half Day

Age Groups-

• 5-15

The Ratio of Students to Instructors-

• 4:1

Qualifications-

• all instructors are trained and certified in CPR, First Aid, and Water Safety by the American Red Cross

Rates-

• Week-Long Full Day- $600
  • 3-Day- $400
• Week-Long Half Day- $400
  • 3-Day- $290
• Drop-in One Full Day-$215
  • Half-Day- $145

Provisions-

• all equipment is included
• provides snacks and sunscreen
• focus on ocean awareness and safety
• professional surf photographer
• all campers receive a “My Surf Camp” journal
• surf contest and pizza party on Fridays

Extras-

• ‘Good Student Reward Program‘ offers camp discounts for good grades (1-8)-(see website for more information)
• discounts for siblings and friends
• private and group surf lessons
• surf rentals

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San Diego Surfing School

San Diego Surfing School operates on two different locations and offers two different San Diego surf camps: one at North Pacific Beach and another at Ocean Beach.

Campers will learn how to surf, gain knowledge on the fundamentals of surfing; as well as learning how to read the ocean currents and the vital importance of water safety.

Est-2000

Mission Statement –  “To provide a safe, exceptional, and first-rate surf experience to clients—locals and tourists—and to show them the quintessential Southern California lifestyle so they can take with them a lasting positive impact in their lives.”

Located at two different beaches:

• Pacific Beach- 4850 Cass Street
• Ocean Beach- End of Newport Avenue

Phone– (858) 205-7683

Website– sandiegosurfingschool.com

Session Dates and Times-

• June 3rd to Aug 26th
• Half-Day Morning
  • 9:00 am-12:00 pm
• Half-Day Mid Afternoon
  • 12:00 pm-3:00 pm
• Half-Day Afternoon
  • 2:30 pm-5:30 pm
• Full Day-
  • 9:00 am- 3:00 pm
  • 12:00pm- 5:30 pm

Age Groups-

• 5 – 17

The Ratio of Students to Instructors-

• 3:1

Qualifications-

• all instructors are CPR and lifeguard certified

Rates-

• One Day
  • Half-Day- from $115
  • Full-Day- from $239
• Three Days-(Mon-Wed) or (Wed-Fri)
  • Half Days- from $225
  • Full Days- from $474
• Five Days
  • Half Days- from $315
  • Full Days- from $664

Provisions–

• surfboard and wetsuit rentals are included in the price
• daily snacks and refreshments are provided
• all campers receive a T-shirt as well as a keepsake surfing photograph and a certificate
• Pizza Party Fridays!

Extra Offerings–

• Boogie Board Camp
• adult retreats
• private/group surf lessons
• SUP (Stand Up Paddle) lessons
• Corporate Team Building
• after-school programs
• competitive training programs

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Endless Summer Surf Academy

Endless Summer Surf Academy which is another San Diego surf camp I came across, is held over on South Mission Beach, near the jetty.  The owner, Cecile Santini, has over 20 years of surfing experience and is also a surf coach at a local high school.

Cecile has a passion for surfing and finds joy in teaching others. She only hires instructors that are well qualified and must have at least five years of experience.

Mission Statement-  “Our qualified surf instructors will teach you how to surf or take your surfing to the next level in a safe and fun environment. Our experienced instructors use proven techniques to ensure your surfing success! “

Address-  N Jetty Rd, San Diego

Phone- (619) 865-6248

Website- endlesssummersurfacademy.com

Session Dates and Times-

• 5-day sessions
• July 8- August 23
• Full-Day Camp
  • 9:00 am- 2:00 pm
• Half-Day Camp
  • 9:00 am- 12:00 pm

Age Groups-

• 5-17

The Ratio of Students to Instructors-

• 4:1

Qualifications-

• all instructors are experienced surfers as well as, LIfeguard, CPR and First Aid certified
  • Lifeguard/Water Safety Specialist

Rates-

• Full-Day Camp- $450
  • $420 if you register 2 or more participants
• Half-Day Camp- $290
  • $260 if you register 2 or more participants

Provisions-

• soft foam surfboard
• spring wetsuit
• rash guard and leash
• surf camp t-shirt
• Krispy Creme donuts on Fridays

Extras-

• discounts are available when registering multiple students
• private surf lessons offered
  • $90/1.5 hours
• group surf lessons
  • $65/1.5 hours

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Pacific Surf School

There are three different locations where Pacific Surf School holds a Surfing Daycamp– Pacific Beach, Mission Beach, and Ocean Beach.

Along with surfing, campers also learn about the importance of water safety, ocean skills, proper surf etiquette as well as ocean environmental education.

Est– 1997

Mission Statement- “Surfing is a unique experience that can be considered both an art form and an athletic pursuit. It is a lifestyle, a way of life, and a great recreational activity that promotes physical fitness, great health, alleviates and relieves stress, and allows you to be in touch with nature!”

Addresses-

• 707 Pacific Beach Dr– Pacific Beach
• 4121 Mission Blvd– Mission Beach
• 5022 Santa Monica Ave– Ocean Beach

Phone-

• (858) 201-4815- Pacific Beach
• (619) 564-4705- Mission Beach
• (858) 964-0478- Ocean Beach

Website-

• pacificsurf.org/camp/day-camp
• missionbeachsurfingschool.com
• oceanbeachsurfschool.com/surf-camp

Session Dates and Times–

• June 10 to August 30th
• Half Days
  • Three days morning- (9:00 am-12:30 pm)
  • Five days morning
  • Five days afternoon- (1:00 pm- 3:00 pm)
• Full Days
  • 5 days- (9:00 am- 3:00 pm)

Age Groups-

• 6-17

The Ratio to Student to Instructors-

• 4:1

Qualifications-

• all staff are qualified ocean lifeguards and certified in CPR and Red Cross techniques

Rates

• Three Half Day morning (Mon-Wed)- $215
• Five Half-Day morning- $285
• Five Half-Day afternoons- $285
• Full-Day for five days- $475

Provisions–

• soft bottom surfboard, wetsuit rental, colorful UV protection rash guard and leash is included
• full week campers get a Pacific Surf School t-shirt
  • Friday pizza party
  • mini surf competition at the end of the week

Extras-

• discounts provided for multiple family or friends enrolled at the same time
• all sites also offer private, semi-private and group surf lessons
• SUP (Stand Up Paddle) lessons
• after school program
• kite surfing lessons

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Ocean Experience Surf School

Ocean Experience Surf School is another premier San Diego surf camp that travels to both South Mission Beach and Ocean Beach as well as Mission Bay.

Here at Ocean Experience Surf School, you have the unique experience to surf and skateboard!

Skateboarding is done over at the Robb Field Skate Park in Ocean Beach in the morning and surfing takes place at South Mission Beach Jetty in the afternoon. There is also the option of only surfing in both the morning and afternoon sessions.

Starting this year, Aqua Adventures has teamed up with Ocean Experience Surf School! What does this mean?

 In the afternoon, campers have a choice of doing many water activities in Mission Bay, such as paddleboarding, kayaking, hydobiking, and riding in Duffy Electric Boats.

Est-1990

Mission Statement- “We have fun outdoor activities every day and strive to instill confidence in kids while learning new sports, improving skills, connecting with other kids, and for some, overcoming fears.”

Addresses-

• 4940 Newport Ave– Surf Shop
• 2525 Bacon St– Robb Field Skate Park
• N Jetty Rd– South Mission Beach Jetty
• 1548 Quivira Way– Aqua Adventures

Phone- (619) 225-0674

Website– oceanexperience.net

Sessions Date and Times-

• June 17- August 23
• Full Day
  • 9:00 am-3:00 pm
• Half Day
  • 9:00 am-12:00 pm
  • 12:30 pm-3:00 pm

Age Groups-

• 6 and above

The Ratio of Students to Instructors-

• 5:1

Qualifications-

• all instructors are certified in ocean safety, water rescue, CPR and First Aid
• taught water safety and surfing to over 25,000 students in its 30-year history

Rates-

• Only Surf (Full-Day)- $490
• Full-Day Surf and Skate- $490
• Full-Day Surf or Skate and Aqua Adventures- $490
• Half-Day Surf or Skate- $325
• Full-Day drop-in- $99/day
• Half-Day drop-in -$69/day

Provisions-

• a soft bottom surfboard
• skateboard (if needed)
• Ocean Experience T-shirt for week-long campers
• Friday cookout for Full Day campers

Extras-

• private and group surf lessons
• skateboard lessons
• Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) lessons
• Baja Experience Tours (see website for more information)

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The Watersports Camp at Mission Bay Aquatic Center

Mission Bay has a San Diego surf camp to choose from as well- The Watersports Camp.

The Watersports Camp is owned and operated by the Associated Students of SDSU and UCSD Recreation and is sponsored by the YMCA.

Here we have a unique camp, as there is the option to have your child arrive early at 6:30 am and stay as late as 6 pm for an additional charge.

There are several camps to choose from here, but I will only be focusing on Surf Camp.

Another unique feature is that you may also choose to add some additional activities in the afternoon; such as sailing, paddleboarding, or windsurfing lessons as well as more surfing for an additional fee (please see website for more information.)

Est- 1971

Mission Statement– “Thousands of kids have experienced surfing for the first time after being pushed into a wave by one of the highly trained and friendly surf instructors at The Watersports Camp. Campers will build confidence in the water and will learn skills that they can use for a lifetime of ocean enjoyment.”

Address- 1001 Santa Clara Pl

Phone- (858) 539-2003

Website- watersportscamp.com

Watersports Camp Parent Handbook

Sessions Dates and Times-

• June 10-August 23
• Full Day
  • 8:00 am-4:30 pm
• Half-Day Morning
  • 8:00 am-11:30 pm
• Half-Day Afternoon
  • 11:00 am-4:30 pm

Age Groups-

• 6-17

The Ratio of Students to Instructors-

• 6:1 for Surf Camp/water sports
• 8:1 for non-water activities

Qualifications-

• all staff are certified as an American Red Cross Waterfront Lifeguards
• all instructors have completed US Powerboat Safe Boat Handling course
• every staff member had a pre-employment background check as well as being fingerprinted for FBI and State of California DOJ criminal background checks

Rates-

• Full-Day (surf in the morning with Multisport Camp in the afternoon)- $405
• Half-Day morning surfing- $280
• Full-Day (morning and afternoon surfing) $405 + $75
• Half-Day afternoon surfing- $295
• Camperships are available for families in need of financial assistance

Provisions-

• use of soft-bottom surfboard
• camp T-shirts
• Spring wetsuits available for use
• pizza party for Full-Day campers once a week
• sunscreen provided

Extras–

• you have a choice of which camp you would like to attend
  • • Surfing
    • Sailing (basic to advanced)
    • Wakeboarding and Waterskiing
    • SUP (Stand Up Paddle)
    • Kayaking
    • Hobie Cat Sailing
    • Marine Science
  • camper will do this activity in the morning but will attend the Multisport Camp in the afternoon unless you choose to  upgrade (see website for more information)
• Early morning drop off at 6:30 am and late pick up at 6 pm for an additional fee
• Camp discounts and financial aid available
• Military and Veterans discounts available

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Surfari Surf School

A former San Diego Lifeguard founded Surfari Surf School. All instructors are veteran surfers who are highly qualified with decades of experience and love to teach. All surfing takes place on Mission Beach.

Est– 2000

Mission Statement– “Surfari Surf School’s instructors, love to teach, and always have students’ best interests at heart. Their mission is to offer the best surf lessons, surf camps, and surf rentals possible! Surfari has already taught thousands of students how to surf or improve their skills over the last decade.”

Address- 3740 Mission Blvd

Phone- (858) 337-3287

Website- surfarisurfschool.com

Sessions Dates and Times-

• May 20- August 9
• 9:30 am to 12:30 pm

Age Groups-

• 6 and up

The Ratio of Students to Instructors–

• 4:1

Qualifications-

• all staff is Red Cross Certified in CPR and trained in Ocean Rescue and First Aid
  • instructors attend a surfing safety class taught by an off duty ocean lifeguard to keep certifications up to date

Rates-

• Monday- Friday- $300

Provisions–

• soft bottom surfboard and leash provided
• use of rash guard and wetsuits
• one hour of practice time after camp hours
• water, restroom, and use of lockers in the surf shop

Extras-

• private, semi-private and group surf lessons available for the beginners on up
  • Seven days a week
  • 1.5 hours of instruction, plus one hour of practice afterward
    • 9 am, 11 am, 1 pm, & 2:30pm
• intermediate surf coaching
• offer surfboards, SUP’s, and other surf equipment rentals by the hour, day, and week

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South Bay- San Diego Surf Camps

YMCA- Summer Day Camp at Camp Surf

The YMCA’s Camp Surf is located on 45 acres on the “Naval Radio Receiving Facility” (NRRF) Base in Imperial Beach. Camp Surf is an acronym for “San Diego Unified Recreation Facility” and is estimated to serve over 12,000 people in the community annually.

Celebrating its 50th Anniversary this year, the YMCA’s Camp Surf is another premier San Diego surf camp where you have the option of both Day Camp as well as a week-long overnight camp for the older campers.

 All prices listed below are for the Day Camp only. Please refer to the website for further information.

Est.- 1969

Mission Statement- “The YMCA of San Diego County is dedicated to improving the quality of human life and to helping all people realize their fullest potential as children of God through the development of the spirit, mind, and body.”

Address– 560 Silver Strand Blvd

Phone– (619) 423-5850

Website- ymca.org/camps/camp-surf

Session Dates and Times-

• June 17-Aug 16
• 9:00 am-5:00 pm
  • free extended care available at request
    • early check-in at 7:30 am and late pick-up at 6:00 pm

Ages-

• • Grades 1-7

The Ratio of Students to Instructors–

• 5:1

Qualifications-

• there is an on-site health facility with staff trained in CPR and First Aid as well as an on-call Doctor in Imperial Beach

Rates-

• $280 for participants
• $238 for YMCA Members
• Scholarships available

Provisions-

• the use of long and short foam surfboards
• meals and snacks are provided throughout the day
• online photo gallery available to see the everyday activities of the campers
• three hours of ocean time to surf or bodyboard
• wetsuit rentals available for an additional $20

Extras–

• grades 5-7 have the option to stay overnight for free or signing up for one of the Marine Science Specialty Camps
  • $310 for participants
  • $263.50 for YMCA Members
• Surf Summer Camp- One to Two week-long overnight camp depending on the age (see website for more information)
• Group retreats available

End of the List

So after reading all of the options, did I happened to leave any other San Diego surf camps off the list? If you are aware of any other San Diego surf camps, please say so in the comment section below, as I would like this list to be as accurate as possible.

May the Summer of 2019 be filled with as much surfing as possible!